How to erect a Barn Owl nestbox on a tree
How to put up an outdoor nest box for Barn Owls
Step-by-step photo guide instructions for 2 fixing methods for exterior DIY Barn Owl boxes. The first method is suitable for tree trunks; and the second is for trees with large forked branches.
Tree nestboxes bought from the Barn Owl Trust are supplied with a Hanging Kit already fitted. The screws and nails you need are enclosed. At the top and bottom there are recycled plastic “hangers” permanently bolted to the box. The hanging system involves screwing and nailing into a tree so, where possible, please choose a dead tree.
An alternative method is to use straps (not supplied by us), they must be UV-stable (polyester not polypropylene). We suggest 25mm / 800kg ratchet straps supplied by Damar Webbing Products.
Safety
- Erecting nestboxes is a potentially hazardous operation.
- Barn Owl Trust staff and volunteers are training to do so using a single ladder and have all the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment, including ‘fall arrest’ gear
- Your assessment of the risks involved may call for the use of additional ladders or alternative methods of working at height.
Remember to choose a position where the nestbox hole is clearly visible from a distance.
METHOD 1: pre-drill a 50x50mm batten. This is the Tree Batten.
Fix a 25x50x90mm ‘hook’ at each end of the Tree Batten.
Another 50x50mm batten is strongly attached to the nestbox. This is the Nestbox Batten.
The Nestbox Batten will sit on the Tree Batten when erected.
Nail or strap the Tree Batten to the tree
Carry the box up carefully.
The hooks keep the Nestbox Batten in place . . .
. . . ready for fixing to the Tree Batten.
Nails or screws work fine. Depending on the angle of the trunk, you may need to fix a block of wood behind the bottom of the box.
SAFETY WARNING: tree boxes are heavy.
Use the appropriate Personal Protective Equipment.
Gloves make carrying the box much easier.
Fall Arrest Equipment allows you to use both hands.
UV-stable Rachet Straps can be used instead of nails.
METHOD 2: attach horizontal 50x50mm timber into a tree fork . . .
. . . which the tree box can then be attached to.
Providing a home for a Barn Owl in a tree
Other relevant pages
- About Barn Owl boxes for trees – Do you have a suitable tree?
- Photoguide: Choosing the right tree for erecting a nestbox.
- Buy a Barn Owl tree nestbox – Our recommended safe design.